This dish needs no introduction. The peanut sesame sauce is a classic that everyone in the family will love. Soba noodles are Japanese noodles made from buckwheat flour and wheat flour. If you are seeking out a gluten-free meal, choose 100% buckwheat soba noodles (and gluten-free tamari soy sauce). Despite the name, buckwheat is not related to wheat. It is a highly nutritious fruit seed. Beware though – 100% buckwheat noodles are nearly twice as expensive as the soba noodles made with both wheat and buckwheat flour.

 
Prep time: 20 – 25 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4 – 6 people

Ingredients:

Peanut Sauce:

• 1/2 cup organic creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup shoyu or tamari*
• 1/3 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Noodles:

• 1 pound soba noodles
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

Directions:

1. Combine all of the peanut sauce ingredients in a blender or Vitamix and blend until smooth. Transfer to a large bowl.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook soba noodles until tender (8 – 10 minutes).
3. Drain noodles in a colander, then rinse well under cold water.
4. Add noodles, bell peppers, scallions and sesame seeds to the peanut sauce, tossing to combine.
5. Serve immediately.

*Shoyu and tamari are Japanese soy sauces. Tamari is the gluten-free version. 

Note: You can garnish this dish with a variety of things, including tofu, chopped cilantro, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced scallions.

Adapted from The Gourmet Cookbook.